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Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law at University of Glasgow - UCAS

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2025 - 20262026 - 2027
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Course summary

Animal welfare science and ethics is an expanding topic of international concern. It aims to improve our knowledge and understanding of animals’ needs, which is required to provide a high standard of care to the whole range of animals kept in captivity. WHY THIS PROGRAMME Taught by research-active staff using the latest approaches in understanding and responding to animal welfare-related issues, legislation related to use of animals, and both theoretical and applied ethics. Our strong ties between veterinarians and ecologists are a unique strength, offering training opportunities spanning both fundamental and applied research. Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Learn with the School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine, a grouping of top researchers who focus on combining ecology and evolution with more applied problems in animal health. Develop valuable skills in:

  • conservation biology
  • epidemiology
  • practical approaches to assessing biodiversity
  • quantitative methods
  • sequence analysis
Experience the opportunity to base your independent research projects at:
  • Cochno Farm in Glasgow - for research based on farm animals
  • Millport field station on the Isle of Cumbrae - for marine projects
  • The University field station on Loch Lomond - for freshwater or terrestrial-based projects
We will also assist you to gain research project placements in zoos or research laboratories, whenever possible. Gain core skills and knowledge across a wide range of subjects that will enhance your selection chances for competitive PhD programmes. Many links with animal welfare-related organisations. We regularly welcome organisation experts to deliver guest lectures to our Animal Welfare students. We also arrange for our classes to visit organisations to obtain a first-hand view of working there is like. Many organisations provide our students with opportunities to carry out their independent research project within their company. We have currently the following partners involved in this programme:
  • Blair Drummond Safari Park
  • Chester Zoo
  • Highland Wildlife Park, Kingussie
  • National Museum Scotland
  • Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA)
  • The Aspinall Foundation (Howletts & Port Lympne)
Main Campus Location Mainly undertaken at the Gilmorehill Campus in the West End of Glasgow, with your research projects possibly taking place outwith the city at either Loch Lomond, Isle Of Cumbrae or Cochno Farm. PROGRAMME STRUCTURE The programme provides a strong grounding in scientific writing and communication, statistical analysis, and experimental design. It is designed for flexibility, to enable you to customise a portfolio of courses suited to your particular interests. You can choose from a range of specialised options that encompass key skills in:
  • ethics, legislative policy and welfare science – critical for promoting humane treatment of both captive and wild animals.
  • monitoring and assessing biodiversity – critical for understanding the impacts of environmental change.
  • quantitative analyses of ecological and epidemiological data – critical for animal health and conservation.
A total of 180 credits are required, with 40 flexible credits in the second term. Core courses
  • Animal Ethics and Law
  • Animal Welfare Science
  • Assessment of Animal Well-Being
  • Key Research Skills
Term 2: Optional courses
  • Animal Identification
  • Care & Enrichment of Captive Animals
  • Conservation Genetics
  • Economic tools for conservation
  • Geographic Information Systems for Ecologists
  • Molecular Epidemiology and Phylodynamics
Core MSc component
  • AWSEL Independent Project

How to apply

International applicants

International applicant information can be found via gla.ac.uk by searching for 'international'.

Entry requirements

2.1 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in any degree related to Animal Biology. We may also accept degrees in Animal Production. Applicants are required to provide a personal statement explaining motivations for applying to this programme. The statement should make specific reference to wanting to learn more about the underlying science of Animal Welfare and future plans post-qualification.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

All fees are published on the University of Glasgow website. https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/feesandfunding/

Sponsorship information

Sponsorship and funding information can be found via gla.ac.uk by searching for 'scholarships'.

Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law at University of Glasgow - UCAS